NewJeans iPhone Ad Sparks Controversy, Investigations— What Happened?

Renowned clothing brand NewJeans, which entered modeling for Apple's iPhone, is facing scrutiny from the Korea Communications Standards Commission (KOCSC) due to a controversial appearance on SBS' "Inkigayo" music show on July 30th.

The KOCSC has initiated an official review of the incident. 

KOCSC Investigates NewJeans' iPhone Partnership Following Stirring 'Inkigayo' Music Show Controversy

A spokesperson from the Korea Communications Standards Commission (KOCSC) confirmed on August 9th that they have been receiving numerous complaints about the contentious iPhone advertising segment by NewJeans.

The KOCSC representative acknowledged their ongoing assessment of the content and revealed that a crucial decision is imminent, regarding whether to elevate the issue to the committee for a thorough review. 

The crux of the issue stems from NewJeans' appearance on "Inkigayo," where the group showcased the iPhone 14 Pro following their performance.

Seizing the opportunity, the members captured snapshots of each other using the device's camera - a spectacle that was also relayed through the lens of the iPhone's camera itself.

READ ALSO: NewJeans 'Lip Sync' Sparks Outrage Among Bunnies- Here's Why  

Netizens' comments: 

• "well it's their job to promote something aside their music!"
• "If idol wear shoe Nike, Gucci, LV on stage ???, Why bring iphone make knet mixed opinions"
• "I mean they bag iphone endorsement.."
• "Theyre so iconic for that"
• "defecating with iphones"

Regulatory Boundaries in the Spotlight 

During the roughly 2 minutes and 30 seconds of stage time, NewJeans seamlessly incorporated about 20 seconds of indirect advertising into their performance.

The calculated placement of the iPhone and its unmistakable "search iPhone" feature, along with repeated close-up shots, has incited a flurry of debate.

Under the purview of the Broadcasting Act and relevant broadcasting deliberation regulations, "indirect advertising" pertains to the exposure of products unrelated to the core content or development of a broadcast program, resulting in a significant disruption of the viewing experience.

Moreover, any advertisements that influence the narrative or composition of a broadcasting program are subject to review.

READ ALSO: What's the Meaning of NewJeans 'Cool With You'? MV Interpretation Revealed 

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KpopStarz own this article.
Cassidy Jones wrote this.